The Campaign For Real Ale says over 5,800 pubs have closed since the escalator was increased in 2008.

"In opposition, Conservative and Lib Dem politicians were quick to decry the beer duty escalator for the burden it places on people wanting to enjoy a drink and the threat it poses to pubs up and down the country," TaxPayers' Alliance (TPA) chief executive Matthew Sinclair said.

"They're now in a position to do something about it. The abolition of the beer duty escalator is long overdue and a freeze in the rate at this year's Budget would help people coping with so many other pressures on their finances."

TPA beermats explaining the cost of one pint in three now goes to the Treasury are being distributed to pints in towns and cities across the country.

New Treasury minister Sajid Javid said he was in "listening mode" when the issue was debated by the Commons last November, but did not indicate any immediate shift was imminent.

"The sad truth is that pubs have been closing for many years, and that decline has been influenced by many factors, not just alcohol duty," he told MPs.

"Lifestyles and consumer tastes are changing and individuals have increased choice in their leisure activities."